Overview

• Chancellor Rachel Reeves is under criticism for accepting free tickets to a Sabrina Carpenter concert at the O2 Arena, which were not available for public purchase.
• Reeves defended her decision, stating that security concerns influenced her choice to accept the tickets and attend with a family member.
• Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander distanced herself, stating she has never accepted concert tickets as an MP and has been too busy to attend such events.
• Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has previously repaid the value of gifts he received, emphasized that ministers must exercise their own judgment on such matters.
• The controversy comes as Reeves prepares to announce significant public spending cuts, intensifying public scrutiny of government hospitality practices.